• FILE - In this photo released by Warner Bros. , talk show host Ellen DeGeneres embraces Stephen "tWitch" Boss during a taping of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" at the Warner Bros. lot in Burbank, Calif. Boss, a longtime DJ and co-executive producer on the talk show “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and former contestant on the dance competition show, “So You Can Think You Can Dance” has died at the age of 40. (Photo by Michael Rozman/Warner Bros. , File)
    FILE - In this photo released by Warner Bros. , talk show host Ellen DeGeneres embraces Stephen "tWitch" Boss during a taping of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" at the Warner Bros. lot in Burbank, Calif. Boss, a longtime DJ and co-executive producer on the talk show “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and former contestant on the dance competition show, “So You Can Think You Can Dance” has died at the age of 40. (Photo by Michael Rozman/Warner Bros. , File)
  • Stephen 'tWitch' Boss has died aged 40. AP
    Stephen 'tWitch' Boss has died aged 40. AP
  • The DJ and dancer with his wife, Allison Holker, daughter Weslie and son Maddox. AP
    The DJ and dancer with his wife, Allison Holker, daughter Weslie and son Maddox. AP
  • Hillary Clinton practices her dance moves with Boss during a break in the taping of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. AP
    Hillary Clinton practices her dance moves with Boss during a break in the taping of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. AP
  • Boss's death was confirmed by his wife. AFP
    Boss's death was confirmed by his wife. AFP
  • Boss presenting the award for Top Latin Artist at the Billboard Music Awards in Los Angeles in October 2020. AP
    Boss presenting the award for Top Latin Artist at the Billboard Music Awards in Los Angeles in October 2020. AP

Ellen DeGeneres shares favourite moments with Stephen 'tWitch' Boss


  • English
  • Arabic

Ellen DeGeneres is sharing her favourite moments from her show featuring her long-time DJ Stephen "tWitch" Boss, who died on Tuesday.

"Right now what I want to do is remember all the love and laughter I had with tWitch. He brought so much joy to my life. I know he brought joy to yours too. I’m going to be sharing some of my favorite moments with him. If you want to you can also share yours," the former talk show host posted on Twitter along with the hashtag #ILovetWitch.

She then shared a clip of a video montage of her and Boss, who worked on The Ellen DeGeneres Show for nine years until it ended this year.

Boss, who became a fixture on the show after he joined in 2014, was found dead in a Los Angeles hotel on Tuesday. Page Six reported an autopsy ruled the death as suicide and said The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner had closed the case. Boss was 40.

DeGeneres shared another clip on Thursday, which showed Boss teaching her a dance move. He was a dancer and choreographer before joining DeGeneres's show, where he eventually became an executive producer. During his time on the show, he would help to get the audience on their feet, dance with DeGeneres and take part in activities and games along with many of the show's celebrity guests.

Hillary Clinton with Stephen 'tWitch' Boss and Ellen DeGeneres on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2015. Reuters
Hillary Clinton with Stephen 'tWitch' Boss and Ellen DeGeneres on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2015. Reuters

Former US first lady Michelle Obama, Oscar-winning actress Ariana Debose, Modern Family star Julie Bowen and actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson were among stars who have paid tribute to Boss.

"I was heartbroken to learn about the passing of Stephen 'tWitch' Boss, who I got to know over the years through my Let’s Move! initiative and visits to The Ellen Show. Stephen was an incredible force — someone who radiated kindness and positivity, and made sure that people around him could feel it, too. We felt his spirit in every dance, every DJ set, every piece of creativity that he brought to life. My heart goes out to his wife, Allison, and their three children, Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia," Obama posted along with a photo of Boss's family, which included his wife, Allison Holker, and their three children.

News of Boss's death also encouraged actor, director and producer Tyler Perry to open up about past attempts to take his own life.

Perry shared a video on Instagram on Thursday, hoping to help others by urging them to seek help.

“I like the rest of the world am shocked by the death of Stephen Boss, tWitch,” the actor said in the post, which he captioned “Life…”

Perry urged viewers to "call, ask for help if you are dealing with anything, anything that is emotionally taking you to a place that you want to end your life."

“Don’t let the darkness stop you from getting to this incredible place of light.”

Scroll through the gallery to see other famous people we've lost in 2022

  • Korean actress Kim Mi-soo died aged 29 on January 5, 2022. Photo: Landmark Entertainment
    Korean actress Kim Mi-soo died aged 29 on January 5, 2022. Photo: Landmark Entertainment
  • Actor Sidney Poitier died aged 94 on January 6, 2022. Getty Images
    Actor Sidney Poitier died aged 94 on January 6, 2022. Getty Images
  • Director Peter Bogdanovich died aged 82 on January 6, 2022. AP Photo
    Director Peter Bogdanovich died aged 82 on January 6, 2022. AP Photo
  • Oscar-winning composer Marilyn Bergman, pictured with her husband, Alan Bergman, died aged 93 on January 8, 2022. AP Photo
    Oscar-winning composer Marilyn Bergman, pictured with her husband, Alan Bergman, died aged 93 on January 8, 2022. AP Photo
  • American comedian Bob Saget died aged 65 on January 9, 2022. AP Photo
    American comedian Bob Saget died aged 65 on January 9, 2022. AP Photo
  • Actor Gary Waldhorn died aged 78 on January 10, 2022. Getty Images
    Actor Gary Waldhorn died aged 78 on January 10, 2022. Getty Images
  • Rock 'n' roll singer Ronnie Spector died aged 78 on January 12, 2022. AFP
    Rock 'n' roll singer Ronnie Spector died aged 78 on January 12, 2022. AFP
  • Designer Nino Cerruti died aged 91 on January 15, 2022. EPA
    Designer Nino Cerruti died aged 91 on January 15, 2022. EPA
  • Andre Leon Talley, fashion journalist and former editor-at-large for US Vogue, died aged 73 on January 18, 2022. EPA
    Andre Leon Talley, fashion journalist and former editor-at-large for US Vogue, died aged 73 on January 18, 2022. EPA
  • French actor Gaspard Ulliel died aged 37 on January 19, 2022. AFP
    French actor Gaspard Ulliel died aged 37 on January 19, 2022. AFP
  • Marvin Lee Aday, better know as the singer Meat Loaf, died aged 74 on January 20, 2022. EPA
    Marvin Lee Aday, better know as the singer Meat Loaf, died aged 74 on January 20, 2022. EPA
  • Actor Louie Anderson died aged 68 on January 21, 2022. Reuters
    Actor Louie Anderson died aged 68 on January 21, 2022. Reuters
  • Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh, died aged 95 on January 22, 2022. EPA
    Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh, died aged 95 on January 22, 2022. EPA
  • Director Bassam Al Mulla died aged 66 on January 22, 2022. Photo: Sana
    Director Bassam Al Mulla died aged 66 on January 22, 2022. Photo: Sana
  • Fashion designer Thierry Mugler died aged 73 on January 23, 2022. AFP
    Fashion designer Thierry Mugler died aged 73 on January 23, 2022. AFP
  • Actor Moses J Moseley died aged 31 on January 26, 2022. Photo: Instagram / Moses J Moseley
    Actor Moses J Moseley died aged 31 on January 26, 2022. Photo: Instagram / Moses J Moseley
  • Former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst died aged 30 on January 30, 2022. AFP
    Former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst died aged 30 on January 30, 2022. AFP
  • Legendary Bollywood singer Lata Mangeshkar died aged 92 on February 6, 2022. AFP
    Legendary Bollywood singer Lata Mangeshkar died aged 92 on February 6, 2022. AFP
  • Funk singer Betty Davis, ex-wife of jazz musician Miles Davis, died aged 77 on February 9, 2022. Photo: Fin Costello / Redferns
    Funk singer Betty Davis, ex-wife of jazz musician Miles Davis, died aged 77 on February 9, 2022. Photo: Fin Costello / Redferns
  • Filmmaker Ivan Reitman died aged 75 on February 12, 2022. Reuters
    Filmmaker Ivan Reitman died aged 75 on February 12, 2022. Reuters
  • American satirist P J O'Rourke died aged 74 on February 15, 2022. AP Photo
    American satirist P J O'Rourke died aged 74 on February 15, 2022. AP Photo
  • Bollywood singer and composer Bappi Lahiri died aged 69 on February 15, 2022. AFP
    Bollywood singer and composer Bappi Lahiri died aged 69 on February 15, 2022. AFP
  • Jordanian-Lebanese sculptor Mona Saudi died aged 76 on February 16, 2022. Photo: Lawrie Shabibi Gallery
    Jordanian-Lebanese sculptor Mona Saudi died aged 76 on February 16, 2022. Photo: Lawrie Shabibi Gallery
  • Singer Jane Marczewski, known as Nightbirde, died aged 31 on February 19, 2022. Photo: NBC
    Singer Jane Marczewski, known as Nightbirde, died aged 31 on February 19, 2022. Photo: NBC
  • Lebanese singer Sammy Clark died aged 73 on February 20, 2022. Photo: Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi
    Lebanese singer Sammy Clark died aged 73 on February 20, 2022. Photo: Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi
  • British entrepreneur and YouTube star Jamal Edwards died aged 31 on February 20, 2022. AP Photo
    British entrepreneur and YouTube star Jamal Edwards died aged 31 on February 20, 2022. AP Photo
  • Mark Lanegan, of grunge band Screaming Trees, died aged 57 on February 22, 2022. AP Photo
    Mark Lanegan, of grunge band Screaming Trees, died aged 57 on February 22, 2022. AP Photo
  • Children's author and illustrator Shirley Hughes died aged 94 on February 25, 2022. Getty Images
    Children's author and illustrator Shirley Hughes died aged 94 on February 25, 2022. Getty Images
  • Australian cricketer Shane Warne died aged 52 on March 4, 2022. AP Photo
    Australian cricketer Shane Warne died aged 52 on March 4, 2022. AP Photo
  • Emilio Delgado, who played fix-it shop owner Luis on Sesame Street, died aged 81 on March 10, 2022. AP Photo
    Emilio Delgado, who played fix-it shop owner Luis on Sesame Street, died aged 81 on March 10, 2022. AP Photo
  • Actor William Hurt died aged 71 on March 13, 2022. AP
    Actor William Hurt died aged 71 on March 13, 2022. AP
  • Pro wrestler Scott Hall, best known for his time in WWE and WCW, died aged 63 on March 14, 2022. Photo: BANG Showbiz
    Pro wrestler Scott Hall, best known for his time in WWE and WCW, died aged 63 on March 14, 2022. Photo: BANG Showbiz
  • Ukrainian actress Oksana Shvets died aged 67 on March 17, 2022. Photo: Twitter
    Ukrainian actress Oksana Shvets died aged 67 on March 17, 2022. Photo: Twitter
  • Madeleine Albright, the first woman to serve as US secretary of state, died aged 84 on March 23, 2022. Reuters
    Madeleine Albright, the first woman to serve as US secretary of state, died aged 84 on March 23, 2022. Reuters
  • Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins died aged 50 on March 25, 2022. AFP
    Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins died aged 50 on March 25, 2022. AFP
  • Actor Paul Herman died on his 76th birthday on March 29, 2022. AFP
    Actor Paul Herman died on his 76th birthday on March 29, 2022. AFP
  • British singer Tom Parker died aged 33, on March 30, 2022. AP Photo
    British singer Tom Parker died aged 33, on March 30, 2022. AP Photo
  • Rock 'n roll star Bobby Rydell and star of the movie musical Bye Bye Birdie, died aged 79, on April 5, 2022. AP Photo
    Rock 'n roll star Bobby Rydell and star of the movie musical Bye Bye Birdie, died aged 79, on April 5, 2022. AP Photo
  • US actor and comedian Gilbert Gottfried died aged 67 on April 12, 2022. AFP
    US actor and comedian Gilbert Gottfried died aged 67 on April 12, 2022. AFP
  • US country music star Naomi Judd died aged 76 on April 30, 2022. AP
    US country music star Naomi Judd died aged 76 on April 30, 2022. AP
  • South Korean actress Kang Soo-youn died on May 7, 2022, aged 55. EPA
    South Korean actress Kang Soo-youn died on May 7, 2022, aged 55. EPA
  • The late UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, died aged 73 on May 13, 2022. AP Photo / Wam
    The late UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, died aged 73 on May 13, 2022. AP Photo / Wam
  • US actor Ray Liotta died on May 26, 2022 aged 67. Reuters
    US actor Ray Liotta died on May 26, 2022 aged 67. Reuters
  • Bollywood singer Krishnakumar Kunnath, known professionally as KK, died aged 53 on May 31, 2022. AFP
    Bollywood singer Krishnakumar Kunnath, known professionally as KK, died aged 53 on May 31, 2022. AFP
  • Alec John Such, right, founding member of the group Bon Jovi, died aged 70 on June 4, 2022. Getty Images
    Alec John Such, right, founding member of the group Bon Jovi, died aged 70 on June 4, 2022. Getty Images
  • Cooper Noriega, a popular TikTok content creator, died aged 19 on June 9, 2022. Photo: Instagram /@cooper.noriega
    Cooper Noriega, a popular TikTok content creator, died aged 19 on June 9, 2022. Photo: Instagram /@cooper.noriega
  • Philip Baker Hall died aged 90 on June 12, 2022. Invision / AP, File
    Philip Baker Hall died aged 90 on June 12, 2022. Invision / AP, File
  • Actress Mary Mara died aged 61 on June 26, 2022. WireImage
    Actress Mary Mara died aged 61 on June 26, 2022. WireImage
  • Theatre and film director Peter Brook died aged 97 on July 2, 2022
    Theatre and film director Peter Brook died aged 97 on July 2, 2022
  • Manga star and inventor of Yu-Gi-Oh cards, Japanese cartoonist Kazuki Takahashi, died aged 60 on July 4, 2022. EPA
    Manga star and inventor of Yu-Gi-Oh cards, Japanese cartoonist Kazuki Takahashi, died aged 60 on July 4, 2022. EPA
  • US actor James Caan of Godfather fame died aged 82 on July 6, 2022. AFP
    US actor James Caan of Godfather fame died aged 82 on July 6, 2022. AFP
  • Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe died aged 67 on July 8, 2022. AP Photo
    Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe died aged 67 on July 8, 2022. AP Photo
  • Soprano star Tony Sirico, left, died aged 79 on July 8, 2022. AP
    Soprano star Tony Sirico, left, died aged 79 on July 8, 2022. AP
  • Ivana Trump, Donald Trump's first wife, died aged 73 on July 14, 2022. Reuters
    Ivana Trump, Donald Trump's first wife, died aged 73 on July 14, 2022. Reuters
  • Pop artist Claes Oldenburg died aged 93 on July 18, 2022. Archive Photos / Getty Images
    Pop artist Claes Oldenburg died aged 93 on July 18, 2022. Archive Photos / Getty Images
  • Actress Shonka Dukureh died aged 44 on July 21, 2022. Photo: Warner Bros
    Actress Shonka Dukureh died aged 44 on July 21, 2022. Photo: Warner Bros
  • Goodfellas actor Paul Sorvino died aged 83 on July 25, 2022
    Goodfellas actor Paul Sorvino died aged 83 on July 25, 2022
  • US actress Nichelle Nichols died aged 89 on July 30, 2022. Photo: Bettmann / Corbis
    US actress Nichelle Nichols died aged 89 on July 30, 2022. Photo: Bettmann / Corbis
  • US actress Pat Carroll died aged 95 on July 30, 2022. AFP
    US actress Pat Carroll died aged 95 on July 30, 2022. AFP
  • Basketball champion and the first black coach for any US professional sports team Bill Russell died aged 88 on July 31, 2022. AP Photo
    Basketball champion and the first black coach for any US professional sports team Bill Russell died aged 88 on July 31, 2022. AP Photo
  • Australian singer Judith Durham died at the age of 79 in Melbourne on August 5, 2022. EPA
    Australian singer Judith Durham died at the age of 79 in Melbourne on August 5, 2022. EPA
  • Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake died aged 84 on August 5, 2022. AFP
    Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake died aged 84 on August 5, 2022. AFP
  • British-Australian singer and actress Olivia Newton-John died aged 73 on August 8, 2022. EPA
    British-Australian singer and actress Olivia Newton-John died aged 73 on August 8, 2022. EPA
  • Author and illustrator Raymond Briggs died aged 88 on August 9, 2022. PA
    Author and illustrator Raymond Briggs died aged 88 on August 9, 2022. PA
  • Actress Anne Heche died aged 53 on August 11, 2022. AP
    Actress Anne Heche died aged 53 on August 11, 2022. AP
  • Former Pop Idol contestant and theatre star Darius Campbell Danesh died aged 41 on August 11, 2022. PA
    Former Pop Idol contestant and theatre star Darius Campbell Danesh died aged 41 on August 11, 2022. PA
  • Director Wolfgang Petersen died aged 81 on August 12, 2022. Reuters
    Director Wolfgang Petersen died aged 81 on August 12, 2022. Reuters
  • South African actress and model Charlbi Dean Kriek died aged 32 on August 29, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP
    South African actress and model Charlbi Dean Kriek died aged 32 on August 29, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP
  • The last leader of the Soviet Union, former president Mikhail Gorbachev, died aged 91 on August 30, 2022. AP Photo / Boris Yurchenko
    The last leader of the Soviet Union, former president Mikhail Gorbachev, died aged 91 on August 30, 2022. AP Photo / Boris Yurchenko
  • British TV presenter and journalist Bill Turnbull died aged 66 on August 31, 2022. PA Media
    British TV presenter and journalist Bill Turnbull died aged 66 on August 31, 2022. PA Media
  • Queen Elizabeth II died at 96 on September 8, 2022. Photo: Royal Household / Ranald Mackechnie / PA Wire
    Queen Elizabeth II died at 96 on September 8, 2022. Photo: Royal Household / Ranald Mackechnie / PA Wire
  • Philadelphia rapper PnB Rock was fatally shot during a robbery aged 30 on September 12, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP, File
    Philadelphia rapper PnB Rock was fatally shot during a robbery aged 30 on September 12, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP, File
  • French film director Jean-Luc Godard died at age 91 on September 13, 2022. AFP
    French film director Jean-Luc Godard died at age 91 on September 13, 2022. AFP
  • US lawyer and judge Kenneth Starr died aged 76 on September 13, 2022. AFP
    US lawyer and judge Kenneth Starr died aged 76 on September 13, 2022. AFP
  • Author Dame Hilary Mantel died aged 70 on September 22, 2022. Getty Images
    Author Dame Hilary Mantel died aged 70 on September 22, 2022. Getty Images
  • American actress Louise Fletcher died aged 88 on September 23, 2022. Photo: AP, File
    American actress Louise Fletcher died aged 88 on September 23, 2022. Photo: AP, File
  • Yemeni oud player Ahmed Alshaiba died aged 32 on September 28, 2022. Getty Images
    Yemeni oud player Ahmed Alshaiba died aged 32 on September 28, 2022. Getty Images
  • US rapper Coolio died aged 59 on September 28, 2022. Photo: Brenda Chase Online USA Inc
    US rapper Coolio died aged 59 on September 28, 2022. Photo: Brenda Chase Online USA Inc
  • US activist Sacheen Littlefeather died aged 75 on October 2, 2022. AFP
    US activist Sacheen Littlefeather died aged 75 on October 2, 2022. AFP
  • South Korean comic book artist Kim Jung Gi died aged 47 on October 3, 2022. Photo: Kim Jung Gi
    South Korean comic book artist Kim Jung Gi died aged 47 on October 3, 2022. Photo: Kim Jung Gi
  • Grammy Award-winning singer Loretta Lynn died at age 90 on October 4, 2022. Getty Images via AFP
    Grammy Award-winning singer Loretta Lynn died at age 90 on October 4, 2022. Getty Images via AFP
  • Dame Angela Lansbury died of natural causes aged 96 on October 11, 2022
    Dame Angela Lansbury died of natural causes aged 96 on October 11, 2022
  • British actor Robbie Coltrane died at the age of 72 on October 14, 2022. PA Media
    British actor Robbie Coltrane died at the age of 72 on October 14, 2022. PA Media
  • Former Pentagon chief Ash Carter died aged 68 on October 24, 2022. EPA
    Former Pentagon chief Ash Carter died aged 68 on October 24, 2022. EPA
  • US actor Leslie Jordan died aged 67 on October 24, 2022. EPA
    US actor Leslie Jordan died aged 67 on October 24, 2022. EPA
  • Egyptian writer Bahaa Taher died at 87 on October 27, 2022. EPA
    Egyptian writer Bahaa Taher died at 87 on October 27, 2022. EPA
  • American rock and roll musician Jerry Lee Lewis died aged 87 on October 28, 2022. Reuters
    American rock and roll musician Jerry Lee Lewis died aged 87 on October 28, 2022. Reuters
  • US rapper Takeoff, born Kirshnik Khari Ball, died aged 28 on November 1, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP, File
    US rapper Takeoff, born Kirshnik Khari Ball, died aged 28 on November 1, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP, File
  • Singer Aaron Carter died aged 34 on November 5, 2022. EPA
    Singer Aaron Carter died aged 34 on November 5, 2022. EPA
  • American actor John Aniston, father of Jennifer Aniston, died aged 89 on November 11, 2022. AP Photo
    American actor John Aniston, father of Jennifer Aniston, died aged 89 on November 11, 2022. AP Photo
  • The Clash guitarist Keith Levene died aged 65 on November 11, 2022. Mirrorpix
    The Clash guitarist Keith Levene died aged 65 on November 11, 2022. Mirrorpix
  • American actor Jason David Frank died aged 49 on November 19, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP
    American actor Jason David Frank died aged 49 on November 19, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP
  • Latin Grammy-winning balladeer Pablo Milanes died aged 79 on November 22, 2022. AFP
    Latin Grammy-winning balladeer Pablo Milanes died aged 79 on November 22, 2022. AFP
  • Fleetwood Mac keyboardist and singer-songwriter Christine McVie died at age 79 on November 30, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP
    Fleetwood Mac keyboardist and singer-songwriter Christine McVie died at age 79 on November 30, 2022. Photo: Invision / AP
  • Veteran Filipina actress Sylvia La Torre died aged 89 on December 1, 2022. Photo: Facebook
    Veteran Filipina actress Sylvia La Torre died aged 89 on December 1, 2022. Photo: Facebook
  • Actor, musician and children's author Bob McGrath died aged 90 on December 4, 2022. AP Photo
    Actor, musician and children's author Bob McGrath died aged 90 on December 4, 2022. AP Photo
  • American actress Kirstie Alley died at aged 71 on December 5, 2022. EPA
    American actress Kirstie Alley died at aged 71 on December 5, 2022. EPA
  • Filipino musician Jovit Baldivino died aged 29 on December 9, 2022. Photo: Jovit Baldivino / Instagram
    Filipino musician Jovit Baldivino died aged 29 on December 9, 2022. Photo: Jovit Baldivino / Instagram
  • Composer Angelo Badalamenti died aged 85 on December 11, 2022. AP
    Composer Angelo Badalamenti died aged 85 on December 11, 2022. AP
  • Stephen 'tWitch' Boss died aged 40 on December 13, 2022. AFP
    Stephen 'tWitch' Boss died aged 40 on December 13, 2022. AFP
  • Terry Hall, lead singer of The Specials, died aged 63 on December 18, 2022. PA
    Terry Hall, lead singer of The Specials, died aged 63 on December 18, 2022. PA
  • Primal Scream and The Charlatans keyboardist Martin Duffy died aged 55 on December 18, 2022. Getty Images
    Primal Scream and The Charlatans keyboardist Martin Duffy died aged 55 on December 18, 2022. Getty Images
  • Maxi Jazz, lead singer of British group Faithless, died aged 65 on December 23, 2022. EPA
    Maxi Jazz, lead singer of British group Faithless, died aged 65 on December 23, 2022. EPA
  • British actor and comedian John Bird died aged 66 on December 24, 2022. PA
    British actor and comedian John Bird died aged 66 on December 24, 2022. PA
  • Musician Joseph 'Jo Mersa' Marley, grandson of Bob Marley, died aged 31 on December 27, 2022. Getty Images
    Musician Joseph 'Jo Mersa' Marley, grandson of Bob Marley, died aged 31 on December 27, 2022. Getty Images
  • Brazilian football legend Pele died aged 82 on December 29, 2022. Reuters
    Brazilian football legend Pele died aged 82 on December 29, 2022. Reuters
  • British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood died aged 81 on December 29, 2022. Getty Images
    British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood died aged 81 on December 29, 2022. Getty Images
  • US television journalist Barbara Walters died aged 93 on December 30, 2022. EPA
    US television journalist Barbara Walters died aged 93 on December 30, 2022. EPA
  • Former pope Benedict XVI died aged 95 on December 31, 2022. AFP
    Former pope Benedict XVI died aged 95 on December 31, 2022. AFP
Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026

1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years

If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.

2. E-invoicing in the UAE

Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption. 

3. More tax audits

Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks. 

4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime

Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.

5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit

There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.

6. Further transfer pricing enforcement

Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes. 

7. Limited time periods for audits

Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion. 

8. Pillar 2 implementation 

Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.

9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services

Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations. 

10. Substance and CbC reporting focus

Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity. 

Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer

What are the influencer academy modules?
  1. Mastery of audio-visual content creation. 
  2. Cinematography, shots and movement.
  3. All aspects of post-production.
  4. Emerging technologies and VFX with AI and CGI.
  5. Understanding of marketing objectives and audience engagement.
  6. Tourism industry knowledge.
  7. Professional ethics.
SQUAD

Ali Khaseif, Fahad Al Dhanhani, Adel Al Hosani, Mohammed Al Shamsi, Bandar Al Ahbabi, Mohammed Barghash, Salem Rashid, Khalifa Al Hammadi, Shaheen Abdulrahman, Hassan Al Mahrami, Walid Abbas, Mahmoud Khamis, Yousef Jaber, Saeed Ahmed, Majed Sorour, Majed Hassan, Ali Salmeen, Abdullah Ramadan, Khalil Al Hammadi, Fabio De Lima, Khalfan Mubarak, Tahnoun Al Zaabi, Ali Saleh, Caio Canedo, Muhammed Jumah, Ali Mabkhout, Sebastian Tagliabue, Zayed Al Ameri

The burning issue

The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE. 

Read part four: an affection for classic cars lives on

Read part three: the age of the electric vehicle begins

Read part two: how climate change drove the race for an alternative 

Top New Zealand cop on policing the virtual world

New Zealand police began closer scrutiny of social media and online communities after the attacks on two mosques in March, the country's top officer said.

The killing of 51 people in Christchurch and wounding of more than 40 others shocked the world. Brenton Tarrant, a suspected white supremacist, was accused of the killings. His trial is ongoing and he denies the charges.

Mike Bush, commissioner of New Zealand Police, said officers looked closely at how they monitored social media in the wake of the tragedy to see if lessons could be learned.

“We decided that it was fit for purpose but we need to deepen it in terms of community relationships, extending them not only with the traditional community but the virtual one as well," he told The National.

"We want to get ahead of attacks like we suffered in New Zealand so we have to challenge ourselves to be better."

WHEN TO GO:

September to November or March to May; this is when visitors are most likely to see what they’ve come for.

WHERE TO STAY:

Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari - Chitwan National Park resort (tajhotels.com) is a one-hour drive from Bharatpur Airport with stays costing from Dh1,396 per night, including taxes and breakfast. Return airport transfers cost from Dh661.

HOW TO GET THERE:

Etihad Airways regularly flies from Abu Dhabi to Kathmandu from around Dh1,500 per person return, including taxes. Buddha Air (buddhaair.com) and Yeti Airlines (yetiairlines.com) fly from Kathmandu to Bharatpur several times a day from about Dh660 return and the flight takes just 20 minutes. Driving is possible but the roads are hilly which means it will take you five or six hours to travel 148 kilometres.

Spec%20sheet
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDisplay%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204.7%22%20Retina%20HD%2C%201334%20x%20750%2C%20625%20nits%2C%201400%3A1%2C%20True%20Tone%2C%20P3%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EChip%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Apple%20A15%20Bionic%2C%206-core%20CPU%2C%204-core%20GPU%2C%2016-core%20Neural%20Engine%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECamera%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%2012MP%2C%20f%2F1.8%2C%205x%20digital%20zoom%2C%20Smart%20HDR%2C%20Deep%20Fusion%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EVideo%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204K%2B%40%2024%2F30%2F60fps%2C%20full%20HD%2B%40%2030%2F60fps%2C%20HD%2B%40%2030%20fps%3Cstrong%3E%3Cbr%3EFront%20camera%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E7MP%2C%20f%2F2.2%2C%20Smart%20HDR%2C%20Deep%20Fusion%3B%20HD%20video%2B%40%2030fps%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBattery%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Up%20to%2015%20hours%20video%2C%2050%20hours%20audio%3B%2050%25%20fast%20charge%20in%2030%20minutes%20with%2020W%20charger%3B%20wireless%20charging%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBiometrics%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Touch%20ID%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EDurability%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20IP67%2C%20dust%2C%20water%20resistant%20up%20to%201m%20for%2030%20minutes%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20From%20Dh1%2C849%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Dubai World Cup prize money

Group 1 (Purebred Arabian) 2000m Dubai Kahayla Classic - $750,000
Group 2 1,600m(Dirt) Godolphin Mile - $750,000
Group 2 3,200m (Turf) Dubai Gold Cup – $750,000
Group 1 1,200m (Turf) Al Quoz Sprint – $1,000,000
Group 2 1,900m(Dirt) UAE Derby – $750,000
Group 1 1,200m (Dirt) Dubai Golden Shaheen – $1,500,000
Group 1 1,800m (Turf) Dubai Turf –  $4,000,000
Group 1 2,410m (Turf) Dubai Sheema Classic – $5,000,000
Group 1 2,000m (Dirt) Dubai World Cup– $12,000,000

Simran

Director Hansal Mehta

Stars: Kangana Ranaut, Soham Shah, Esha Tiwari Pandey

Three stars

COMPANY PROFILE

Company: Bidzi

● Started: 2024

● Founders: Akshay Dosaj and Asif Rashid

● Based: Dubai, UAE

● Industry: M&A

● Funding size: Bootstrapped

● No of employees: Nine

The specs: 2018 BMW R nineT Scrambler

Price, base / as tested Dh57,000

Engine 1,170cc air/oil-cooled flat twin four-stroke engine

Transmission Six-speed gearbox

Power 110hp) @ 7,750rpm

Torque 116Nm @ 6,000rpm

Fuel economy, combined 5.3L / 100km

World Cricket League Division 2

In Windhoek, Namibia - Top two teams qualify for the World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe, which starts on March 4.

UAE fixtures

Thursday, February 8 v Kenya; Friday, February v Canada; Sunday, February 11 v Nepal; Monday, February 12 v Oman; Wednesday, February 14 v Namibia; Thursday, February 15 final

UK%20record%20temperature
%3Cp%3E38.7C%20(101.7F)%20set%20in%20Cambridge%20in%202019%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Specs

Engine: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive electric

Range: Up to 610km

Power: 905hp

Torque: 985Nm

Price: From Dh439,000

Available: Now

New UK refugee system

 

  • A new “core protection” for refugees moving from permanent to a more basic, temporary protection
  • Shortened leave to remain - refugees will receive 30 months instead of five years
  • A longer path to settlement with no indefinite settled status until a refugee has spent 20 years in Britain
  • To encourage refugees to integrate the government will encourage them to out of the core protection route wherever possible.
  • Under core protection there will be no automatic right to family reunion
  • Refugees will have a reduced right to public funds
Company%20profile
%3Cp%3EName%3A%20Tabby%3Cbr%3EFounded%3A%20August%202019%3B%20platform%20went%20live%20in%20February%202020%3Cbr%3EFounder%2FCEO%3A%20Hosam%20Arab%2C%20co-founder%3A%20Daniil%20Barkalov%3Cbr%3EBased%3A%20Dubai%2C%20UAE%3Cbr%3ESector%3A%20Payments%3Cbr%3ESize%3A%2040-50%20employees%3Cbr%3EStage%3A%20Series%20A%3Cbr%3EInvestors%3A%20Arbor%20Ventures%2C%20Mubadala%20Capital%2C%20Wamda%20Capital%2C%20STV%2C%20Raed%20Ventures%2C%20Global%20Founders%20Capital%2C%20JIMCO%2C%20Global%20Ventures%2C%20Venture%20Souq%2C%20Outliers%20VC%2C%20MSA%20Capital%2C%20HOF%20and%20AB%20Accelerator.%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The%C2%A0specs%20
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EEngine%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Dual%20synchronous%20electric%20motors%20%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPower%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E646hp%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETorque%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E830Nm%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETransmission%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ETwo-speed%20auto%20(rear%20axle)%3B%20single-speed%20auto%20(front)%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EFrom%20Dh552%2C311%3B%20Dh660%2C408%20(as%20tested)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOn%20sale%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3Enow%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Previous men's records
  • 2:01:39: Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) on 16/9/19 in Berlin
  • 2:02:57: Dennis Kimetto (KEN) on 28/09/2014 in Berlin
  • 2:03:23: Wilson Kipsang (KEN) on 29/09/2013 in Berlin
  • 2:03:38: Patrick Makau (KEN) on 25/09/2011 in Berlin
  • 2:03:59: Haile Gebreselassie (ETH) on 28/09/2008 in Berlin
  • 2:04:26: Haile Gebreselassie (ETH) on 30/09/2007 in Berlin
  • 2:04:55: Paul Tergat (KEN) on 28/09/2003 in Berlin
  • 2:05:38: Khalid Khannouchi (USA) 14/04/2002 in London
  • 2:05:42: Khalid Khannouchi (USA) 24/10/1999 in Chicago
  • 2:06:05: Ronaldo da Costa (BRA) 20/09/1998 in Berlin
Milestones on the road to union

1970

October 26: Bahrain withdraws from a proposal to create a federation of nine with the seven Trucial States and Qatar. 

December: Ahmed Al Suwaidi visits New York to discuss potential UN membership.

1971

March 1:  Alex Douglas Hume, Conservative foreign secretary confirms that Britain will leave the Gulf and “strongly supports” the creation of a Union of Arab Emirates.

July 12: Historic meeting at which Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid make a binding agreement to create what will become the UAE.

July 18: It is announced that the UAE will be formed from six emirates, with a proposed constitution signed. RAK is not yet part of the agreement.

August 6:  The fifth anniversary of Sheikh Zayed becoming Ruler of Abu Dhabi, with official celebrations deferred until later in the year.

August 15: Bahrain becomes independent.

September 3: Qatar becomes independent.

November 23-25: Meeting with Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid and senior British officials to fix December 2 as date of creation of the UAE.

November 29:  At 5.30pm Iranian forces seize the Greater and Lesser Tunbs by force.

November 30: Despite  a power sharing agreement, Tehran takes full control of Abu Musa. 

November 31: UK officials visit all six participating Emirates to formally end the Trucial States treaties

December 2: 11am, Dubai. New Supreme Council formally elects Sheikh Zayed as President. Treaty of Friendship signed with the UK. 11.30am. Flag raising ceremony at Union House and Al Manhal Palace in Abu Dhabi witnessed by Sheikh Khalifa, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

December 6: Arab League formally admits the UAE. The first British Ambassador presents his credentials to Sheikh Zayed.

December 9: UAE joins the United Nations.

If you go

The flights

There are direct flights from Dubai to Sofia with FlyDubai (www.flydubai.com) and Wizz Air (www.wizzair.com), from Dh1,164 and Dh822 return including taxes, respectively.

The trip

Plovdiv is 150km from Sofia, with an hourly bus service taking around 2 hours and costing $16 (Dh58). The Rhodopes can be reached from Sofia in between 2-4hours.

The trip was organised by Bulguides (www.bulguides.com), which organises guided trips throughout Bulgaria. Guiding, accommodation, food and transfers from Plovdiv to the mountains and back costs around 170 USD for a four-day, three-night trip.

 

'Cheb%20Khaled'
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EArtist%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EKhaled%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ELabel%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EBelieve%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Heavily-sugared soft drinks slip through the tax net

Some popular drinks with high levels of sugar and caffeine have slipped through the fizz drink tax loophole, as they are not carbonated or classed as an energy drink.

Arizona Iced Tea with lemon is one of those beverages, with one 240 millilitre serving offering up 23 grams of sugar - about six teaspoons.

A 680ml can of Arizona Iced Tea costs just Dh6.

Most sports drinks sold in supermarkets were found to contain, on average, five teaspoons of sugar in a 500ml bottle.

Updated: December 17, 2022, 6:40 AM